GHMC uses earthmovers, risks structural stability of Charminar

March 2, 2018, 10:13 PM IST

Hyderabad: As Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) is using earthmovers to dig up the road near Charminar, experts started expressing concern about the structural stability of the historical monument.

According to the report published in Times of India, GHMC deployed earthmovers for Charminar Pedestrianisation project (CPP). However, this deployment was done without permission from Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). Expressing concern, Heritage and archaeology experts said that the vibrations due to earthmovers may impact the structural stability of the monument.

The ongoing pedestrianisation project of Charminar picked up the pace. The western side of the Charminar is dug up for fixing pipeline. (Pics. Mazher)

The ongoing pedestrianisation project of Charminar picked up the pace. The western side of the Charminar is dug up for fixing pipeline. (Pics. Mazher)

Charminar Pedestrianisation Project picked up the pace. The western side of the Charminar is dug up for constructing the basement of buffer zone. (Pics. Murli)

Charminar Pedestrianisation Project picked up the pace. The western side of the Charminar is dug up for constructing the basement of buffer zone. (Pics. Murli)

It may be mentioned that use of earthmover may not only affect Charminar base but also other nearby monuments. Many historical monuments are located near Charminar including Mecca Masjid, Ayurveda Hospital, Unani Hospital and Charkaman.

Talking about this, Superintending Archaeologist, Mr. Milan Kumar Chauley said that authorities did not take permission before digging up the earth near Charminar. Prof. P. Channa Reddy, Heritage Expert also raised objections over using an earthmover for CPP. Convener of Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) Hyderabad, P Anuradha Reddy told that no permission was taken from ASI and authorities should stop using machines immediately.

It is also reported that Nonagenarian Olympian Jeelani Pairak told that under the CPP, the ban would be imposed on vehicles to protect the historical monument. However, authorities are using earthmovers as part of the program,

History of Charminar

Historical monument, Charminar was constructed by Mohammad Quli Qutub Shah V in 1591 CE. Monument has become the symbol of the city. Many tourists visit Hyderabad to see the beautiful monuments. Thus, Charminar not only add beauty to the city but also attracts foreigners.